Back injury cases in workers’ compensation claims

Back injury cases are common in workers’ compensation claims. Over one million workers in the United States suffer back injuries every year. If a worker suffers a back injury while performing their job duties, they may be eligible for compensation through their employer’s insurance company. Most sizable companies are required to carry this type of insurance for their employees’ medical expenses and lost wages. 

Unfortunately, in some cases, claims get denied even when workers rightfully filed for workers’ compensation. Sometimes employers or their insurance companies simply don’t want to investigate or pay out. Sometimes they even retaliate against the worker for filing a valid claim, which is prohibited by law. These are extreme examples of where lawyers step in, but we also step in when the injured worker simply needs help filing a claim, proving the work-related injury, or gathering evidence. 

There are often time limits on such reports, so a lawyer can help you meet deadlines for all the required paperwork. Here at The Law Offices of Craig L. Cook, our attorneys specialize in helping Arkansas residents with their back injury cases. Did you suffer a back injury at work? Book a free consultation with one of our workers’ compensation attorneys to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.

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What are work-related back injuries?

This includes any type of back pain caused while performing tasks in line with your job description, including the following:

• disc bulges
• muscle strains
• spinal stenosis
• facet syndrome
• vertebral fractures
• slipped or herniated discs

These types of injuries are consistent with workers’ compensation claims as long as the back injury was work-related and the worker was not violating corporate policy that led to the personal injury, such as ignoring safety protocol and getting hurt. If a worker deliberately causes their own injury, they are not eligible for benefits. 

However, if they accidentally caused their own injury and are technically at fault, they can file a claim due to the no-fault system in Arkansas. There are exceptions to this rule, as stated above. But generally speaking, workers can receive money for work-related injuries even if they are at fault. 

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How to recognize back injuries

Back injuries are a common workplace issue, often caused by a specific incident or gradually developing due to repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). Many employees experience back pain, stiffness, or discomfort from heavy lifting, poor posture, or repetitive movements over time. Protecting workers from back injuries is essential to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace.

Ways to recognize back injuries include:

• swelling, bruising, or pain that intensifies when coughing, sneezing, or laughing
• pain
• stiffness
• muscle spasms
• issues with movement
• numbness or tingling in the legs
• difficulty bending or standing up straight
• shooting or burning pain radiating down the legs

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Steps to take if you suspect a back injury

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury and are wondering how to prove a back injury at work or apply for workers’ compensation benefits, there are important steps you should follow. Knowing what to do after a workplace injury can help protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. Learn more about the recommended steps here.

1. Seek medical attention

• the pain is severe or doesn’t improve with rest
• you have difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels
• you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs
• you suspect a serious injury like a fracture or spinal cord damage

Seeking medical attention will help you:

• assess the severity of the injury
• receive proper treatment for the injury
• know whether or not you can return to work
• use the medical visit as evidence that an injury occurred

You may be wondering, “Will going back to work affect my injury claim?” It may. Going back to work too soon may indicate that the injuries aren’t severe and lower your compensation amount. It is crucial to follow the doctor’s orders on when you can safely return to work, even if you feel ready before the recommended healing period is up. 

2. Report the injury to your employer.

Gather any photos/security camera footage and witness statements you have of the incident. These are important steps in the process of obtaining evidence, maintaining records of the incident, and meeting deadlines for workers’ compensation documentation.

3. Educate yourself on workers’ compensation laws in your area

Since they vary by state, you will want to make sure you know your rights. 

4. File a claim.

A lawyer can help you with this, or you can do this on your own with your employer. 

5. Consider hiring a lawyer.

Attorneys are experts when it comes to these types of cases. We will know exactly what to do and how to help you. 

6. Explore disability benefits

Seek rehab services if necessary, and focus on self-care.

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What causes back injuries at work? 

Workers often injure their backs due to:

• prolonged sitting with poor posture
• falls
• heavy lifting
• awkward postures
• vibration from machinery
• sudden forceful movements
• repetitive bending or twisting

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Our process for workers’ comp

You might be wondering what a workers’ compensation lawyer does. We:

1. Advocate on your behalf to make sure you get what you deserve.
2. Understand workers’ compensation laws.
3. Provide expert legal advice to our workers.
4. Help our clients file claims with their employer. 
5. Gather any evidence needed for the injury claim.
6. Negotiate settlements with insurance companies. 
7. Help injured people get the benefits they’re eligible for. 
8. Handle paperwork accurately and by the deadline listed. 
9. Assist with any potential steps such as appeals or a trial. 

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Compensation in back injury cases

We are dedicated to helping injured workers get the justice and compensation they deserve. Workplace injuries can lead to lost wages, mounting medical bills, and financial stress, especially when you’re unable to work. Even missing one paycheck can create a significant burden. If you’ve been injured on the job, we’re here to fight for your rights and ensure you get the support you need to recover.

There are many factors influencing the value of a claim, including: 

• pre-existing conditions
• the severity of the injury
• future work limitations at play
• whether or not surgery is needed
• the amount of time you missed work
• the extent of medical treatment required

We help clients maximize benefits, getting the highest amount of compensation possible in their case. Book a free consultation with us to get started.